Card games have long been used to bring people of all backgrounds together, and older Americans in particular find them to be very engaging. The majority of card games are simple to learn and don’t require a lot of physical exertion, making them accessible to players of all skill levels. However, card games are more than just an activity for senior citizens in the United States. Let’s discuss why you ought to bring a deck of cards the next time you visit an elderly American, as they offer distinct advantages.
Promotes Socialization
As family members relocate and friends begin to pass away, a large number of older Americans experience loneliness and depression. A straightforward game of Gin Rummy or Go Fish is not only enjoyable, but it’s also a great way to establish and maintain personal relationships for people who frequently feel isolated from society. Even if you don’t feel like you have anything to say, you might be surprised by what comes out during a game of cards.
Stress Reduction
Although socialization and stress management frequently go hand in hand, stress management is so crucial that it deserves to be mentioned separately. American seniors can reduce stress while having fun and living in the moment by focusing on a game. Consequently, everything from lowering blood pressure to enhancing immune function and sleep
Better Memory and Cognitive Skills
Card games can help stimulate their brains, and some games are especially good at stimulating memory, which is something that many older Americans struggle with due to diminished cognitive abilities, including memory loss. Decide on a regular time to play card games with your elderly loved one if you want to help them think a little bit more clearly (or just stop their mental abilities from declining).
Improved motor abilities
Playing card games can help maintain and even improve your loved one’s physical dexterity in their hands and fingers, even though they do not require any physical exertion to hold, play, or shuffle cards. Some games also require hand-eye coordination and reflexes, so you should play them with your elderly family members to help them keep or even improve their hand-eye coordination and reflexes, which can both help them avoid accidents in their daily lives.
Enhances immune responses
Due to the fact that playing card games helps reduce stress and boosts immune function, which is common in older Americans, your elderly loved one will be less likely to get sick or hurt. Playing card games while recovering from an illness or injury is not only a fantastic pastime, but it can also hasten the healing process.
The common areas at Stillwater Senior Living are constantly well-stocked with games, including decks of playing cards, because we want to make the most of every aspect of our residents’ stay with us. We are always happy to talk if you are curious about all the ways we try to make our residents’ lives better and longer. Now is the time to initiate communication.
